2008 BMW 523 vs. 2012 Volvo C30
To start off, 2012 Volvo C30 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 34 kg more than 2012 Volvo C30.
Because 2008 BMW 523 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo C30, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 2012 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 523 | C30 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1456 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4252 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1448 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
